Kaval's Kickoff: Community soccer fields see progress

In spite of the tough loss Saturday, the Quakes had a great six-point clip last week and remained on top of the table as the boys get into the heart of the 2012 MLS schedule. It was uncharacteristic of our club to lose a late lead. We had done a great job so far this season of staying mentally tough. It’s important to keep everything in perspective because overall we are still well positioned heading into the Mother’s Day special against Chivas USA this coming Sunday, 4 p.m. at Buck Shaw Stadium. Being at friendlier confines with an energetic and passion fan base behind the boys, I think we’ll see a great rebound performance. I look forward to seeing another packed house to pick the team up and get us a good result.

As a special tribute to Mother's Day on Sunday, we're inviting all moms in attendance to participate in our pre-game rally tunnel on the field. Additionally, we have a special offer for fans still looking for tickets. In addition to four Center Circle tickets at $30 apiece, the package includes a rose for mom courtesy of the Earthquakes. The offer can be purchased by clicking here.

Finally, the final approval of the community soccer fields that would slot in adjacent to our current training facility and the site of our new stadium is expected to be scheduled in June in front of the San Jose City Council. Once I get the exact date, I will communicate that information to our fans and community stakeholders. The Quakes were selected as part of an RFP process to manage the complex. That agreement with the city along with the contractor and final land agreement will be the subject of the meeting. We would appreciate folks supporting the project and attending the meeting in mid-June.

The community soccer fields will enhance the overall stadium complex and provide a boost to the quality of life for residents of the Silicon Valley. We are thrilled that the city has shown the foresight to fund and construct these fields. It will be an amazing community asset for generations to come. Imagine the prospect of seeing a kid grow up playing his soccer on the community fields and eventually making it to the big show next door in our new stadium. These fields are a great opportunity to grow the soccer community and I know I can count on our fans and stakeholders to attend the meeting and show support for the project.